The Wallabies will gather in Sydney on January 5 for a three-day training camp, marking the kickoff for their 2026 international rugby season preparations. This camp will involve 40 players, coaches, and support staff, who will convene before returning to their Super Rugby Pacific clubs. The primary goals are to reflect on the lessons learned from the challenging 2025 Test campaign and to conduct physical and medical assessments for the players returning from their annual leave. Head coach Joe Schmidt highlighted the significance of this time together, noting it as a crucial moment for review and learning.
Notable inclusions in the squad are flyhalf Tom Lynagh, scrumhalf Tate McDermott, and fullback Tom Wright. Lynagh returns after being rested in November, McDermott has recovered from a hamstring surgery sustained in September, and Wright is back following an ACL injury suffered in August. The squad features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, including uncapped prop Massimo De Lutiis, who is set to join after an injury-stricken 2025 season.
The Wallabies will not regroup until after the Super Rugby Pacific concludes. They are scheduled to participate in 14 Tests during the 2026 season, facing a variety of teams such as Ireland, France, Japan, Argentina, and South Africa. This early training camp is crucial for the Wallabies as they assess individual and team performances, laying a solid foundation for what they aim to be a successful 2026 campaign.
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